Manta rays are the largest rays, with some reaching over 6 meters wide. They are found globally in tropical and temperate waters. The manta ray population in Fiji is an important site for research as it is one of the best places to observe manta rays. Individual manta rays can be identified by unique spot patterns on their undersides. The Fiji Manta Ray Project uses photographic identification to learn about manta ray movements, population size, breeding, and behavior in Fiji waters. Manta rays face threats from fisheries and bycatch and more research is needed to understand and protect these species.
This document lists 25 animal species ranging from the Addax antelope to the Northern White Rhino, followed by a statement that there are less than 1,600 individuals remaining of each species listed. It notes that of all the species mentioned, the most endangered - the Northern White Rhino - has only 4 individuals left in existence.
Fiji Shark Conservation and Awareness Project - International Year of the Sha...Stuart Gow
The document summarizes key aspects of sharks found in Fiji such as their taxonomy, morphology, physiology, reproduction, and ecology. It then discusses several shark species commonly seen by divers in Fiji and provides brief descriptions. The document concludes by covering threats faced by sharks including overfishing and bycatch, and possible actions that can be taken to help protect sharks.
The document discusses establishing Fiji as a shark sanctuary by banning commercial shark fishing. It notes that sharks have existed for over 400 million years and help maintain marine ecosystem balance. However, up to 73 million sharks are killed annually for their fins, threatening many populations. While some sharks are caught as bycatch in Fiji, others are now targeted, with a warehouse observed processing about 9,000 fins monthly. The campaign aims to protect all 58 shark species in Fiji's waters by ending the shark trade and declaring Fiji's waters a shark sanctuary.
Rainbow trout are a species of salmonid fish that live in shallow streams, rivers, lakes, and coastal waters around the world. They eat a variety of foods like insects, fish eggs, and small fish. Rainbow trout spawn in the spring and females can lay between 2,000-3,000 eggs at a time. In the wild, they are preyed upon by other fish, bears, otters, raccoons, seals, and killer whales. In Georgia, laws are in place to protect the rainbow trout population.
Sharks play an important role in marine ecosystems but many species are threatened by overfishing. India is one of the largest shark fishing nations. Several shark species are classified as vulnerable or endangered by the IUCN due to overfishing for their fins and meat. International organizations like FAO and CITES aim to improve shark conservation and management. The NPOA-Sharks outlines India's strategy, which includes protecting habitats and species while ensuring sustainable fishing. More efforts are still needed for population recovery and trade regulation.
The Pacific seahorse is about 15 centimeters long with a curled tail used to hook onto objects. Males carry and protect the eggs. Their habitats of coral reefs, sea grass, and mangroves are being rapidly damaged, forcing them to adapt. Seahorses now receive protection from organizations working to safeguard the animals and their habitats from threats like pollution, habitat loss, introduced species, and human activities such as trawling and cyanide fishing.
The document describes several key facts about seahorses:
- Male seahorses carry and incubate eggs in a brood pouch, are slimmer and less spiny than females, and have a curled tail to hook onto objects.
- Seahorses live in shallow tropical and temperate waters along coastlines worldwide and feed on tiny crustaceans and fish by rapidly inhaling water.
- Their habitats of coral reefs, sea grass, and mangroves are threatened by damage and lack of protection, forcing seahorses to adapt. Conservation organizations now work to protect seahorses and their habitats from further damage.
This document lists 25 animal species ranging from the Addax antelope to the Northern White Rhino, followed by a statement that there are less than 1,600 individuals remaining of each species listed. It notes that of all the species mentioned, the most endangered - the Northern White Rhino - has only 4 individuals left in existence.
Fiji Shark Conservation and Awareness Project - International Year of the Sha...Stuart Gow
The document summarizes key aspects of sharks found in Fiji such as their taxonomy, morphology, physiology, reproduction, and ecology. It then discusses several shark species commonly seen by divers in Fiji and provides brief descriptions. The document concludes by covering threats faced by sharks including overfishing and bycatch, and possible actions that can be taken to help protect sharks.
The document discusses establishing Fiji as a shark sanctuary by banning commercial shark fishing. It notes that sharks have existed for over 400 million years and help maintain marine ecosystem balance. However, up to 73 million sharks are killed annually for their fins, threatening many populations. While some sharks are caught as bycatch in Fiji, others are now targeted, with a warehouse observed processing about 9,000 fins monthly. The campaign aims to protect all 58 shark species in Fiji's waters by ending the shark trade and declaring Fiji's waters a shark sanctuary.
Rainbow trout are a species of salmonid fish that live in shallow streams, rivers, lakes, and coastal waters around the world. They eat a variety of foods like insects, fish eggs, and small fish. Rainbow trout spawn in the spring and females can lay between 2,000-3,000 eggs at a time. In the wild, they are preyed upon by other fish, bears, otters, raccoons, seals, and killer whales. In Georgia, laws are in place to protect the rainbow trout population.
Sharks play an important role in marine ecosystems but many species are threatened by overfishing. India is one of the largest shark fishing nations. Several shark species are classified as vulnerable or endangered by the IUCN due to overfishing for their fins and meat. International organizations like FAO and CITES aim to improve shark conservation and management. The NPOA-Sharks outlines India's strategy, which includes protecting habitats and species while ensuring sustainable fishing. More efforts are still needed for population recovery and trade regulation.
The Pacific seahorse is about 15 centimeters long with a curled tail used to hook onto objects. Males carry and protect the eggs. Their habitats of coral reefs, sea grass, and mangroves are being rapidly damaged, forcing them to adapt. Seahorses now receive protection from organizations working to safeguard the animals and their habitats from threats like pollution, habitat loss, introduced species, and human activities such as trawling and cyanide fishing.
The document describes several key facts about seahorses:
- Male seahorses carry and incubate eggs in a brood pouch, are slimmer and less spiny than females, and have a curled tail to hook onto objects.
- Seahorses live in shallow tropical and temperate waters along coastlines worldwide and feed on tiny crustaceans and fish by rapidly inhaling water.
- Their habitats of coral reefs, sea grass, and mangroves are threatened by damage and lack of protection, forcing seahorses to adapt. Conservation organizations now work to protect seahorses and their habitats from further damage.
Fisheries and aquatic environments in GIAHSExternalEvents
http://www.fao.org/giahs/en/
This presentation was presented during the Joint Meeting of Steering and Scientific Commitee that took place at FAO headquarters 28-29 April 2015. The presentation was made by. Prof. Anne Mcdonald, Sophia University, Japan
The document discusses the characteristics, types, habitats, behaviors, threats and other aspects of manatees. It describes how there are three main types of manatees found in warm tropical waters around the world. The document provides details on manatee anatomy, feeding habits, reproduction, communication, and threats they face such as habitat loss, hunting, and collisions with boats.
You have heard wonderful tales about manatees. Now, you are more curious than ever. You want to know more about these amazing sea cows and are planning a manatee tour. Learn more at Captain Mike's Swimming with the Manatees.
The document discusses the Indian mackerel species Rastrelliger kanagurta. It is found along coastal regions in the Indian Ocean and western Pacific Ocean. R. kanagurta contributes over 95% of total mackerel catch in Indian waters. It is a pelagic fish that travels in large shoals and feeds on plankton. The mackerel fishery is an important industry for India, though conservation efforts are needed to prevent overfishing of juveniles.
- African and Asian elephants are listed as endangered species by the IUCN, with population estimates of 0.5 million and 0.04 million respectively.
- Elephants play an important ecological role but face major threats of habitat loss, degradation, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
- Conservation efforts include protecting elephant habitats and connectivity, managing human-elephant conflict, strengthening legislation against poaching, and monitoring populations.
Shrimp Culture: Culture of Tiger Shrimp (Penaeus monodon)Ratul Chakraborty
This document provides information on the culture of tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon). It discusses the shrimp's natural distribution, classification, anatomy, life cycle phases, and main producer countries. Tiger shrimp are widely farmed for food, especially in Southeast Asia. They typically inhabit tropical coastal waters and estuaries. The largest producer of farmed tiger shrimp is Thailand.
Making Tourism Sustainable for the Micro-Small-Medium Enterprise (MSME) in FijiStuart Gow
With the theme ‘Progressive Tourism through Sustainable Partnerships’, the FTT provided a platform for Government and key tourism industry stakeholders to discuss pertinent matters to
help develop the Fijian tourism industry sustainably. The FTT discussed projects, plans and recommendation that will grow the tourism sector further.
Session 3: Making Tourism: Sustainable. This session focused on renewable energy, forest and marine protection and sustainable tourism. Expected outcomes from this session were to garner greater support for addressing challenges to the sustainable development of the tourism sector.
Presented at the 2017 Fijian Tourism Talanoa, Sheraton Resort, Fiji
18th November 2017
Hosted by: Fiji Ministry Of Industry, Trade And Tourism
SME Private ownership and the community in FijiStuart Gow
SME Private ownership and the community in Fiji presentation given at Tourism and community development in Fiji symposium hosted by The School of Tourism and Hospitality Management, University of the South Pacific in association with The Institute of Development Studies, Massey University
25 June 2015
Location: Post Graduate Lecture Theatre, Faculty of Business and Economics
Ecotourism is defined as responsible travel that conserves the environment and improves livelihoods. Its key principles are minimizing impacts, raising environmental awareness, and providing benefits like conservation funding and community empowerment. A tourism operation can be considered ecotourism if it meets benchmarks regarding conservation, community support, and environmental interpretation. While Fiji has successful ecotourism examples, not all nature-based or community tourism qualifies, and the term should not be diluted. Operations should adhere to international standards of the three benchmarks to legitimately call themselves ecotourism.
Work Stress - MBA Organisational Behaviour SeminarStuart Gow
Organisational Behaviour ; Robbins, S.P., Judge, T.A., Millett, B., Boyle, M. (2014) , 7ed.. NSW, Australia: Pearson Education Australia
“The Retention Bonus? Time,” S. Greenhouse, The New York Times(January 8, 2011), pp. B1, B7
“The Yawning of a New Era,” M. V. Rafter, Workforce Management (December 2010), pp. 3–4
“Deutsche Says It Does More with Less,” M. Turner, Financial News (June 2, 2011), efinancialnews.com
David J. Abramis (1994) Relationship Of Job Stressors To Job Performance: Linear Or An Inverted-u? Psychological Reports: Volume 75, Issue , Pp. 547-558
Mei-yung Leung, Yee-Shan Chan, Paul Olomolaiye. (2008) Impact of Stress on the Performance of Construction Project Managers. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management 134:8, 644-652
Fiji ONE Competitive Strategy - MBA440 - Strategic Management - USP Fiji Stuart Gow
Fiji Television Limited (Fiji TV) has lost major market share of advertising clients to Fiji Broadcasting Corporation's (FBC) new television station. Fiji TV conducted an analysis to develop a strategic plan to regain market share over the next 5 years. The plan includes improving compelling content, regional expansion, partnerships for new technologies like IPTV and mobile apps, and supporting national electrification to increase viewers. The goal is for Fiji TV to regain over 60% of the market share.
FijiFoto GLO-BUS Presentation MBA 2014 @ USP FijiStuart Gow
GLO-BUS is a completely online exercise where teams of students run a digital camera company in head-to-head competition against companies run by other class members. Company operations parallel those of actual digital camera companies. Just as in the real-world, companies compete in a global market arena, selling digital cameras in four geographic regions—Europe-Africa, North America, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America.
Company co-managers must make decisions relating to R&D, component usage, camera performance, product line breadth, p roduction operations, work force compensation, outsourcing, pricing, sales and marketing, finance, and corporate citizenship and social responsibility. The challenge is to craft and execute a competitive strategy that results in a respected brand image, keeps your company in contention for global market leadership, and produces good financial performance as measured by earnings per share, return on investment, stock price appreciation, and credit rating.
All aspects of the GLO-BUS business strategy game parallel the functioning of the real-world digital camera market, thus allowing you and your co-managers to (1) think rationally and logically in deciding what to do and (2) get valuable practice in making a variety of different business decisions under circumstances that mirror real-world competitive conditions.
GLUCO biscuit product Marketing Plan - MBA 437 MarketingStuart Gow
Product
The company will launch an all new product into the Fiji and South Pacific Regional marketplace. It is aimed primarily as a Glucose Biscuit for the School Lunch Market.
The company seeks to fulfill the following benefits with the GLUCO biscuit product:
Healthy alternatives to candy: aimed at mothers looking for a lower sugar and added health benefits in a snack for their children
Conveniently packaged in individual packs for daily lunch pack use
Weekly packs of 5, buying size for ease of budgeting and buying decision (5 schooldays a week)
Added Iron, Calcium and Vitamins (similar to breakfast cereals claims) as an added value
Company Background
GAKKS Ltd already has an established packaged foods business that has been successful in Fiji for over 15 years.
Packaged goods already produced: dried noodles, packet soups, herbs and spices.
Current factory operations management has found the space and the capital to produce the new biscuit line, and has produced costing as included in this Marketing Plan.
MBA 437 Marketing (Core Course)
Principles of marketing are discussed with reference to South Pacific products and services. Topics covered include: the role of marketing in the organisation and society, the marketing environment, customer markets and buyer behaviour, marketing research, market segmentation and positioning, the marketing mix, product life cycle, marketing planning, and the ethical consequences of marketing actions. The marketing function is regarded as a key ingredient in management and strategic planning. Continuous reference is made to both the domestic and international marketplace.
http://www.usp.ac.fj/index.php?id=mba437
Students
Anchiemona Latu
Georgina Atalifo
Karan Pranesh
Kirti Prasad
Stuart Gow
Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM) - MBA 423 Human Resources Manageme...Stuart Gow
Chapter Review/ Discussion Questions (CRQs) – 10% marks
At the end of each chapter of the text book, there are chapter review questions (CRQs) which are meant to review and test the student’s understanding of the chapter. The facilitator will chose and then allocate the CRQs to each group during week 2 for class presentations in weeks 3 to 7. Some of these questions are being recommended by Stone as possible essay questions which are frequently asked in examinations throughout the world. The time for each presentation may vary from 10 to 20 minutes followed by class discussions. The group’s power-point presentations, both soft and hard copies, must be submitted to the course facilitator on or before the presentation. No written report is required for CRQs. The class and the facilitator will evaluate each group’s presentation. A blank evaluation form will be made available in class and posted in Moodle. However, the MBA 423 Human Resource Management GSB, FBE, USP facilitator has the final say in terms of the final marks to be allocated to each group. The criterias to be used as a guide for evaluating the CRQ presentations is provided in the blank evaluation form.
MBA 423 Human Resources Management (Elective Course)
The effective management of people has an important bearing on organisational success. The importance of personnel policies and procedures has created opportunity for managers and administrators with expertise in this field. The course provides conceptual and practical skills in areas such as the strategic aspects of human resource management, manpower planning, recruitment and selection, performance appraisal, training and development, salary administration and employee benefits. Industrial relations in the context of the South Pacific region is an important theme.
http://www.usp.ac.fj/index.php?id=mba423
Students:
Stuart Gow
Amrish Narayan
Chaminda Wanninayake
Graduate School of Business
Faculty of Business and Economics
University of the South Pacific,
Private Bag, Laucala Campus,
Suva, Fiji.
Tel: (679) 323 1391/323 1392
Fax: (679) 323 1397
OHS in the Workplace - MBA 423 Human Resource ManagementStuart Gow
Case Studies (CS) – 10% marks
There are many excellent long and short case studies found throughout Stone’s book relating to the various sections and chapters of the text. Students will be required to work on these case studies, with the view to better understand the various HR theories and concepts and also to prepare them for their final examination. The facilitator will chose and then allocate the case studies for each group during week 2 for class presentations from weeks 7/8 and 9. The time for each presentation may vary from 10 to 20 minutes followed by class discussions. The group’s power-point presentations, both soft and hard copies, must be submitted to the course facilitator on or before the presentation. No written report is required for CS. The class and the facilitator will evaluate each group’s presentation. A blank evaluation form will be made available in class and posted in Moodle. However, the facilitator has the final say in terms of the final marks to be allocated to each group. The criteria to be used as a guide for evaluating the CS presentations is provided in the blank evaluation form.
MBA 423 Human Resources Management (Elective Course)
The effective management of people has an important bearing on organisational success. The importance of personnel policies and procedures has created opportunity for managers and administrators with expertise in this field. The course provides conceptual and practical skills in areas such as the strategic aspects of human resource management, manpower planning, recruitment and selection, performance appraisal, training and development, salary administration and employee benefits. Industrial relations in the context of the South Pacific region is an important theme.
http://www.usp.ac.fj/index.php?id=mba423
Students:
Stuart Gow
Amrish Narayan
Chaminda Wanninayake
Graduate School of Business
Faculty of Business and Economics
University of the South Pacific,
Private Bag, Laucala Campus,
Suva, Fiji.
Tel: (679) 323 1391/323 1392
Fax: (679) 323 1397
Diversity in the Workplace - MBA 423 Human Resource ManagementStuart Gow
MBA 423 Human Resources Management (Elective Course)
The effective management of people has an important bearing on organisational success. The importance of personnel policies and procedures has created opportunity for managers and administrators with expertise in this field. The course provides conceptual and practical skills in areas such as the strategic aspects of human resource management, manpower planning, recruitment and selection, performance appraisal, training and development, salary administration and employee benefits. Industrial relations in the context of the South Pacific region is an important theme.
http://www.usp.ac.fj/index.php?id=mba423
Major Research Project (MRP) - 15%
Students will work in their allocated groups for the major research project (MRP) – which are indicated in the Course Outline. Each group will be required to base their project on arelevant and interesting HRM topic or current issue or company in which the group members have an interest.
A 30 minute group presentation (inclusive of answer and question session) will be made during weeks 10 and 11 of the trimester, as per the brief class timetable on page 7. The group’s power-point presentations, both soft and hard copies, must be submitted to the course facilitator on or before the presentation. A written report (around 20 pages) is required for the MRP - the due date for the report will be agreed to later in class. The class and the facilitator will evaluate each group’s presentation. The class and the facilitator will evaluate each group’s presentation. A blank evaluation form will be made available in class and posted in Moodle. However, the facilitator has the final say in terms of the final marks to be allocated to each group. The criterias to be used as a guide for evaluating the MRP presentations is provided in the blank evaluation form.
Students:
Stuart Gow
Amrish Narayan
Chaminda Wanninayake
Graduate School of Business
Faculty of Business and Economics
University of the South Pacific,
Private Bag, Laucala Campus,
Suva, Fiji.
Tel: (679) 323 1391/323 1392
Fax: (679) 323 1397
MBA - Vanuatu - Business Environment Country Report for MBA 434 South Pacific...Stuart Gow
Business Environment Country Report - VANUATU (20%)
Groups will make a 20 minute presentation using PowerPoint on their assessment of the business environment in a Pacific Island Country assigned to their group.
Groups should analyze the business environment of the selected country and make a presentation using charts, maps, diagrams, photos and illustrations. Reports should cover:
Business environment and the World Bank ease of doing business survey findings for 2013
Country economic profile and private sector structure and performance
Economic outlook for sustainable development, green growth and investment
Review of the growth prospects of industries
Support for small business and entrepreneurship
Assessment Criteria for the Presentation
Quality of Oral and Visual Presentation
Logical structure of the presentation with table of content as second slide.
Clear presentation of the topic and the main issues
Quality of power-point slides
Use of graphs, charts, tables, photographs
Presenters engage audience with eye contact, confidence, enthusiasm, positive attitude, persuasive style
Timing and speed of presentation ( 20 minutes limit)
Evidence of thorough preparation
Collected information on the country from several websites, published reports and studies
Demonstrated a sound knowledge of the country business environment
MBA 434 South Pacific Business Environment @ The University of the South Pacific
http://www.usp.ac.fj/index.php?id=mba434
This was to cover the required Case study (10%)
In groups of four or five people you will analyze a case study and apply tools presented during the lectures. From the 11 case studies we chose: Pure Fiji
The course covers key issues relating to the South Pacific business environment. Corporate social responsibility, regionalism, utilisation of natural resources, impacts of culture on business problems, labour relations, government support for business privatisation and the consequences of foreign investment will be considered. The relationships of business, culture and the natural environment, commercial law, as well as the ethics of various viewpoints and practices constitute major themes.
Students:
Stuart Gow
Archana Singh
Maxine Valentine
Date: January 2013
Vanuatu Country Brief 2013 for MBA 434 South Pacific Business Environment (Core Course)
The course covers key issues relating to the South Pacific business environment. Corporate social responsibility, regionalism, utilisation of natural resources, impacts of culture on business problems, labour relations, government support for business privatisation and the consequences of foreign investment will be considered. The relationships of business, culture and the natural environment, commercial law, as well as the ethics of various viewpoints and practices constitute major themes.
The Graduate School of Business (GSB) is located at Statham Campus and currently Professor Raghuvar Dutt Pathak is the Head of the Graduate School of Business (GSB) and Director of MBA programme.
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) was first offered in 1995 by The University of The South Pacific. It has since then established itself as a high quality, internationally recognised programme. As well as offering the MBA courses to both full-time and part-time students in Suva, we continued to deliver the programme to part-time students to other pacific island nation. Year after year has seen an increase in MBA student enrolments.
http://www.usp.ac.fj/index.php?id=mba
Private sector ecotourism from the ground up: the experiences and challenges ...Stuart Gow
Private sector ecotourism from the ground up: the experiences and challenges of an outer island eco-resort in developing a world class tourism and hotel operation". A Case Study.
Stuart Gow, Director, Matava Resort, Kadavu, Fiji www.matava.com
Ecotourism is a simple term to use, but requires more than mere labelling to put into practice. In order to develop a genuine ecotourism product, a commitment to eco-principles needs to be made at the planning stages, to ensure that the business is based on genuine efforts to
establish environmental and social sustainability in the real sense. Eco-tourism is a global industry, and all eco-tourism ventures must be able to stand up against global, not just national, standards.
On its own, commitment to following sustainable environmental and social principles does not ensure the success of a tourism endeavour. There must be adequate demand for the product
if it is to succeed and continue to grow. Marketing efforts must be made to spread awareness of environmental issues and to raise the profile of an ecotourism venture, to build a continuing customer base.
Matava Resort on Kadavu Island was developed to incorporate solar power, organic gardening and other eco-tourism principles from the start of the business. The formation of the “Matava Foundation” enables the resort to process community requests for assistance, as well as managing tourism involvement with community projects. A continuing active marketing plan taps in to the growing demand for planet friendly vacations.
Experiences and challenges met during development of Matava Eco-tourism resort included:
Difficulties:
• Waste management is difficult - recyclables and glass can only be disposed of off
island
• Vagaries of outer island infrastructure makes resort very vulnerable to flight and ferry
schedule variations
• Current power, water and waste systems limit resort scale to a maximum of 15 bures,
and cannot be increased on current systems
• Communications on outer islands are very expensive, VTSat system is the only reliable
internet and phone solution
• There is a confusion in the mainstream tourism market and national psyche about what
constitutes ecotourism – many misinterpret it to mean solely low-end backpacker /
village based tourism
ISLANDS & SMALL STATES
TOURISM CONFERENCE:
Current Issues and Future Challenges
Suva, Fiji • 12 - 14 September 2011 • Hosted by: The University of the South Pacific
Fiji Butterflyfish Presentation at FICSFStuart Gow
The 2009 inaugural Fiji Islands Conservation Science Forum (FICSF) provided an excellent platform for the Butterflyfish Count organizing committee to present its findings to the greater scientific and conservation organizations in Fiji as well as to the general public. The presentation was made by Chinnamma Reddy on behalf of the committee.
In the International Year of the Coral Reef (2008), you have the opportunity to help celebrate and record Fiji’s amazing coral reef biodiversity, show you care about our world’s delicate coral reef systems, and have fun, by taking part in a week-long hunt for the Great Fiji Butterflyfish!
Easy to do, this is suitable for visitors and locals alike, whether you are a snorkeler, SCUBA diver or Glass-bottom boat passenger. We hope that tourists, school children, scientists and all people with an interest in the marine environment will take to the reefs with us to search for Butterflyfish.
Double Saddled Butterflyfish, FijiThe Great Fiji Butterflyfish Count will be held around Fiji from the 2nd to the 8th November 2008. You can do a single count during that week, or take place as many times as you like during that week, so that you cover different reefs. All data will be gratefully accepted!
So, grab your Great Fiji Butterflyfish Count slate from participating resorts and dive operators, put on your snorkel and mask and dive into the beautiful blue waters of Fiji, to be a part of history!
Fisheries and aquatic environments in GIAHSExternalEvents
http://www.fao.org/giahs/en/
This presentation was presented during the Joint Meeting of Steering and Scientific Commitee that took place at FAO headquarters 28-29 April 2015. The presentation was made by. Prof. Anne Mcdonald, Sophia University, Japan
The document discusses the characteristics, types, habitats, behaviors, threats and other aspects of manatees. It describes how there are three main types of manatees found in warm tropical waters around the world. The document provides details on manatee anatomy, feeding habits, reproduction, communication, and threats they face such as habitat loss, hunting, and collisions with boats.
You have heard wonderful tales about manatees. Now, you are more curious than ever. You want to know more about these amazing sea cows and are planning a manatee tour. Learn more at Captain Mike's Swimming with the Manatees.
The document discusses the Indian mackerel species Rastrelliger kanagurta. It is found along coastal regions in the Indian Ocean and western Pacific Ocean. R. kanagurta contributes over 95% of total mackerel catch in Indian waters. It is a pelagic fish that travels in large shoals and feeds on plankton. The mackerel fishery is an important industry for India, though conservation efforts are needed to prevent overfishing of juveniles.
- African and Asian elephants are listed as endangered species by the IUCN, with population estimates of 0.5 million and 0.04 million respectively.
- Elephants play an important ecological role but face major threats of habitat loss, degradation, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
- Conservation efforts include protecting elephant habitats and connectivity, managing human-elephant conflict, strengthening legislation against poaching, and monitoring populations.
Shrimp Culture: Culture of Tiger Shrimp (Penaeus monodon)Ratul Chakraborty
This document provides information on the culture of tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon). It discusses the shrimp's natural distribution, classification, anatomy, life cycle phases, and main producer countries. Tiger shrimp are widely farmed for food, especially in Southeast Asia. They typically inhabit tropical coastal waters and estuaries. The largest producer of farmed tiger shrimp is Thailand.
Making Tourism Sustainable for the Micro-Small-Medium Enterprise (MSME) in FijiStuart Gow
With the theme ‘Progressive Tourism through Sustainable Partnerships’, the FTT provided a platform for Government and key tourism industry stakeholders to discuss pertinent matters to
help develop the Fijian tourism industry sustainably. The FTT discussed projects, plans and recommendation that will grow the tourism sector further.
Session 3: Making Tourism: Sustainable. This session focused on renewable energy, forest and marine protection and sustainable tourism. Expected outcomes from this session were to garner greater support for addressing challenges to the sustainable development of the tourism sector.
Presented at the 2017 Fijian Tourism Talanoa, Sheraton Resort, Fiji
18th November 2017
Hosted by: Fiji Ministry Of Industry, Trade And Tourism
SME Private ownership and the community in FijiStuart Gow
SME Private ownership and the community in Fiji presentation given at Tourism and community development in Fiji symposium hosted by The School of Tourism and Hospitality Management, University of the South Pacific in association with The Institute of Development Studies, Massey University
25 June 2015
Location: Post Graduate Lecture Theatre, Faculty of Business and Economics
Ecotourism is defined as responsible travel that conserves the environment and improves livelihoods. Its key principles are minimizing impacts, raising environmental awareness, and providing benefits like conservation funding and community empowerment. A tourism operation can be considered ecotourism if it meets benchmarks regarding conservation, community support, and environmental interpretation. While Fiji has successful ecotourism examples, not all nature-based or community tourism qualifies, and the term should not be diluted. Operations should adhere to international standards of the three benchmarks to legitimately call themselves ecotourism.
Work Stress - MBA Organisational Behaviour SeminarStuart Gow
Organisational Behaviour ; Robbins, S.P., Judge, T.A., Millett, B., Boyle, M. (2014) , 7ed.. NSW, Australia: Pearson Education Australia
“The Retention Bonus? Time,” S. Greenhouse, The New York Times(January 8, 2011), pp. B1, B7
“The Yawning of a New Era,” M. V. Rafter, Workforce Management (December 2010), pp. 3–4
“Deutsche Says It Does More with Less,” M. Turner, Financial News (June 2, 2011), efinancialnews.com
David J. Abramis (1994) Relationship Of Job Stressors To Job Performance: Linear Or An Inverted-u? Psychological Reports: Volume 75, Issue , Pp. 547-558
Mei-yung Leung, Yee-Shan Chan, Paul Olomolaiye. (2008) Impact of Stress on the Performance of Construction Project Managers. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management 134:8, 644-652
Fiji ONE Competitive Strategy - MBA440 - Strategic Management - USP Fiji Stuart Gow
Fiji Television Limited (Fiji TV) has lost major market share of advertising clients to Fiji Broadcasting Corporation's (FBC) new television station. Fiji TV conducted an analysis to develop a strategic plan to regain market share over the next 5 years. The plan includes improving compelling content, regional expansion, partnerships for new technologies like IPTV and mobile apps, and supporting national electrification to increase viewers. The goal is for Fiji TV to regain over 60% of the market share.
FijiFoto GLO-BUS Presentation MBA 2014 @ USP FijiStuart Gow
GLO-BUS is a completely online exercise where teams of students run a digital camera company in head-to-head competition against companies run by other class members. Company operations parallel those of actual digital camera companies. Just as in the real-world, companies compete in a global market arena, selling digital cameras in four geographic regions—Europe-Africa, North America, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America.
Company co-managers must make decisions relating to R&D, component usage, camera performance, product line breadth, p roduction operations, work force compensation, outsourcing, pricing, sales and marketing, finance, and corporate citizenship and social responsibility. The challenge is to craft and execute a competitive strategy that results in a respected brand image, keeps your company in contention for global market leadership, and produces good financial performance as measured by earnings per share, return on investment, stock price appreciation, and credit rating.
All aspects of the GLO-BUS business strategy game parallel the functioning of the real-world digital camera market, thus allowing you and your co-managers to (1) think rationally and logically in deciding what to do and (2) get valuable practice in making a variety of different business decisions under circumstances that mirror real-world competitive conditions.
GLUCO biscuit product Marketing Plan - MBA 437 MarketingStuart Gow
Product
The company will launch an all new product into the Fiji and South Pacific Regional marketplace. It is aimed primarily as a Glucose Biscuit for the School Lunch Market.
The company seeks to fulfill the following benefits with the GLUCO biscuit product:
Healthy alternatives to candy: aimed at mothers looking for a lower sugar and added health benefits in a snack for their children
Conveniently packaged in individual packs for daily lunch pack use
Weekly packs of 5, buying size for ease of budgeting and buying decision (5 schooldays a week)
Added Iron, Calcium and Vitamins (similar to breakfast cereals claims) as an added value
Company Background
GAKKS Ltd already has an established packaged foods business that has been successful in Fiji for over 15 years.
Packaged goods already produced: dried noodles, packet soups, herbs and spices.
Current factory operations management has found the space and the capital to produce the new biscuit line, and has produced costing as included in this Marketing Plan.
MBA 437 Marketing (Core Course)
Principles of marketing are discussed with reference to South Pacific products and services. Topics covered include: the role of marketing in the organisation and society, the marketing environment, customer markets and buyer behaviour, marketing research, market segmentation and positioning, the marketing mix, product life cycle, marketing planning, and the ethical consequences of marketing actions. The marketing function is regarded as a key ingredient in management and strategic planning. Continuous reference is made to both the domestic and international marketplace.
http://www.usp.ac.fj/index.php?id=mba437
Students
Anchiemona Latu
Georgina Atalifo
Karan Pranesh
Kirti Prasad
Stuart Gow
Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM) - MBA 423 Human Resources Manageme...Stuart Gow
Chapter Review/ Discussion Questions (CRQs) – 10% marks
At the end of each chapter of the text book, there are chapter review questions (CRQs) which are meant to review and test the student’s understanding of the chapter. The facilitator will chose and then allocate the CRQs to each group during week 2 for class presentations in weeks 3 to 7. Some of these questions are being recommended by Stone as possible essay questions which are frequently asked in examinations throughout the world. The time for each presentation may vary from 10 to 20 minutes followed by class discussions. The group’s power-point presentations, both soft and hard copies, must be submitted to the course facilitator on or before the presentation. No written report is required for CRQs. The class and the facilitator will evaluate each group’s presentation. A blank evaluation form will be made available in class and posted in Moodle. However, the MBA 423 Human Resource Management GSB, FBE, USP facilitator has the final say in terms of the final marks to be allocated to each group. The criterias to be used as a guide for evaluating the CRQ presentations is provided in the blank evaluation form.
MBA 423 Human Resources Management (Elective Course)
The effective management of people has an important bearing on organisational success. The importance of personnel policies and procedures has created opportunity for managers and administrators with expertise in this field. The course provides conceptual and practical skills in areas such as the strategic aspects of human resource management, manpower planning, recruitment and selection, performance appraisal, training and development, salary administration and employee benefits. Industrial relations in the context of the South Pacific region is an important theme.
http://www.usp.ac.fj/index.php?id=mba423
Students:
Stuart Gow
Amrish Narayan
Chaminda Wanninayake
Graduate School of Business
Faculty of Business and Economics
University of the South Pacific,
Private Bag, Laucala Campus,
Suva, Fiji.
Tel: (679) 323 1391/323 1392
Fax: (679) 323 1397
OHS in the Workplace - MBA 423 Human Resource ManagementStuart Gow
Case Studies (CS) – 10% marks
There are many excellent long and short case studies found throughout Stone’s book relating to the various sections and chapters of the text. Students will be required to work on these case studies, with the view to better understand the various HR theories and concepts and also to prepare them for their final examination. The facilitator will chose and then allocate the case studies for each group during week 2 for class presentations from weeks 7/8 and 9. The time for each presentation may vary from 10 to 20 minutes followed by class discussions. The group’s power-point presentations, both soft and hard copies, must be submitted to the course facilitator on or before the presentation. No written report is required for CS. The class and the facilitator will evaluate each group’s presentation. A blank evaluation form will be made available in class and posted in Moodle. However, the facilitator has the final say in terms of the final marks to be allocated to each group. The criteria to be used as a guide for evaluating the CS presentations is provided in the blank evaluation form.
MBA 423 Human Resources Management (Elective Course)
The effective management of people has an important bearing on organisational success. The importance of personnel policies and procedures has created opportunity for managers and administrators with expertise in this field. The course provides conceptual and practical skills in areas such as the strategic aspects of human resource management, manpower planning, recruitment and selection, performance appraisal, training and development, salary administration and employee benefits. Industrial relations in the context of the South Pacific region is an important theme.
http://www.usp.ac.fj/index.php?id=mba423
Students:
Stuart Gow
Amrish Narayan
Chaminda Wanninayake
Graduate School of Business
Faculty of Business and Economics
University of the South Pacific,
Private Bag, Laucala Campus,
Suva, Fiji.
Tel: (679) 323 1391/323 1392
Fax: (679) 323 1397
Diversity in the Workplace - MBA 423 Human Resource ManagementStuart Gow
MBA 423 Human Resources Management (Elective Course)
The effective management of people has an important bearing on organisational success. The importance of personnel policies and procedures has created opportunity for managers and administrators with expertise in this field. The course provides conceptual and practical skills in areas such as the strategic aspects of human resource management, manpower planning, recruitment and selection, performance appraisal, training and development, salary administration and employee benefits. Industrial relations in the context of the South Pacific region is an important theme.
http://www.usp.ac.fj/index.php?id=mba423
Major Research Project (MRP) - 15%
Students will work in their allocated groups for the major research project (MRP) – which are indicated in the Course Outline. Each group will be required to base their project on arelevant and interesting HRM topic or current issue or company in which the group members have an interest.
A 30 minute group presentation (inclusive of answer and question session) will be made during weeks 10 and 11 of the trimester, as per the brief class timetable on page 7. The group’s power-point presentations, both soft and hard copies, must be submitted to the course facilitator on or before the presentation. A written report (around 20 pages) is required for the MRP - the due date for the report will be agreed to later in class. The class and the facilitator will evaluate each group’s presentation. The class and the facilitator will evaluate each group’s presentation. A blank evaluation form will be made available in class and posted in Moodle. However, the facilitator has the final say in terms of the final marks to be allocated to each group. The criterias to be used as a guide for evaluating the MRP presentations is provided in the blank evaluation form.
Students:
Stuart Gow
Amrish Narayan
Chaminda Wanninayake
Graduate School of Business
Faculty of Business and Economics
University of the South Pacific,
Private Bag, Laucala Campus,
Suva, Fiji.
Tel: (679) 323 1391/323 1392
Fax: (679) 323 1397
MBA - Vanuatu - Business Environment Country Report for MBA 434 South Pacific...Stuart Gow
Business Environment Country Report - VANUATU (20%)
Groups will make a 20 minute presentation using PowerPoint on their assessment of the business environment in a Pacific Island Country assigned to their group.
Groups should analyze the business environment of the selected country and make a presentation using charts, maps, diagrams, photos and illustrations. Reports should cover:
Business environment and the World Bank ease of doing business survey findings for 2013
Country economic profile and private sector structure and performance
Economic outlook for sustainable development, green growth and investment
Review of the growth prospects of industries
Support for small business and entrepreneurship
Assessment Criteria for the Presentation
Quality of Oral and Visual Presentation
Logical structure of the presentation with table of content as second slide.
Clear presentation of the topic and the main issues
Quality of power-point slides
Use of graphs, charts, tables, photographs
Presenters engage audience with eye contact, confidence, enthusiasm, positive attitude, persuasive style
Timing and speed of presentation ( 20 minutes limit)
Evidence of thorough preparation
Collected information on the country from several websites, published reports and studies
Demonstrated a sound knowledge of the country business environment
MBA 434 South Pacific Business Environment @ The University of the South Pacific
http://www.usp.ac.fj/index.php?id=mba434
This was to cover the required Case study (10%)
In groups of four or five people you will analyze a case study and apply tools presented during the lectures. From the 11 case studies we chose: Pure Fiji
The course covers key issues relating to the South Pacific business environment. Corporate social responsibility, regionalism, utilisation of natural resources, impacts of culture on business problems, labour relations, government support for business privatisation and the consequences of foreign investment will be considered. The relationships of business, culture and the natural environment, commercial law, as well as the ethics of various viewpoints and practices constitute major themes.
Students:
Stuart Gow
Archana Singh
Maxine Valentine
Date: January 2013
Vanuatu Country Brief 2013 for MBA 434 South Pacific Business Environment (Core Course)
The course covers key issues relating to the South Pacific business environment. Corporate social responsibility, regionalism, utilisation of natural resources, impacts of culture on business problems, labour relations, government support for business privatisation and the consequences of foreign investment will be considered. The relationships of business, culture and the natural environment, commercial law, as well as the ethics of various viewpoints and practices constitute major themes.
The Graduate School of Business (GSB) is located at Statham Campus and currently Professor Raghuvar Dutt Pathak is the Head of the Graduate School of Business (GSB) and Director of MBA programme.
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) was first offered in 1995 by The University of The South Pacific. It has since then established itself as a high quality, internationally recognised programme. As well as offering the MBA courses to both full-time and part-time students in Suva, we continued to deliver the programme to part-time students to other pacific island nation. Year after year has seen an increase in MBA student enrolments.
http://www.usp.ac.fj/index.php?id=mba
Private sector ecotourism from the ground up: the experiences and challenges ...Stuart Gow
Private sector ecotourism from the ground up: the experiences and challenges of an outer island eco-resort in developing a world class tourism and hotel operation". A Case Study.
Stuart Gow, Director, Matava Resort, Kadavu, Fiji www.matava.com
Ecotourism is a simple term to use, but requires more than mere labelling to put into practice. In order to develop a genuine ecotourism product, a commitment to eco-principles needs to be made at the planning stages, to ensure that the business is based on genuine efforts to
establish environmental and social sustainability in the real sense. Eco-tourism is a global industry, and all eco-tourism ventures must be able to stand up against global, not just national, standards.
On its own, commitment to following sustainable environmental and social principles does not ensure the success of a tourism endeavour. There must be adequate demand for the product
if it is to succeed and continue to grow. Marketing efforts must be made to spread awareness of environmental issues and to raise the profile of an ecotourism venture, to build a continuing customer base.
Matava Resort on Kadavu Island was developed to incorporate solar power, organic gardening and other eco-tourism principles from the start of the business. The formation of the “Matava Foundation” enables the resort to process community requests for assistance, as well as managing tourism involvement with community projects. A continuing active marketing plan taps in to the growing demand for planet friendly vacations.
Experiences and challenges met during development of Matava Eco-tourism resort included:
Difficulties:
• Waste management is difficult - recyclables and glass can only be disposed of off
island
• Vagaries of outer island infrastructure makes resort very vulnerable to flight and ferry
schedule variations
• Current power, water and waste systems limit resort scale to a maximum of 15 bures,
and cannot be increased on current systems
• Communications on outer islands are very expensive, VTSat system is the only reliable
internet and phone solution
• There is a confusion in the mainstream tourism market and national psyche about what
constitutes ecotourism – many misinterpret it to mean solely low-end backpacker /
village based tourism
ISLANDS & SMALL STATES
TOURISM CONFERENCE:
Current Issues and Future Challenges
Suva, Fiji • 12 - 14 September 2011 • Hosted by: The University of the South Pacific
Fiji Butterflyfish Presentation at FICSFStuart Gow
The 2009 inaugural Fiji Islands Conservation Science Forum (FICSF) provided an excellent platform for the Butterflyfish Count organizing committee to present its findings to the greater scientific and conservation organizations in Fiji as well as to the general public. The presentation was made by Chinnamma Reddy on behalf of the committee.
In the International Year of the Coral Reef (2008), you have the opportunity to help celebrate and record Fiji’s amazing coral reef biodiversity, show you care about our world’s delicate coral reef systems, and have fun, by taking part in a week-long hunt for the Great Fiji Butterflyfish!
Easy to do, this is suitable for visitors and locals alike, whether you are a snorkeler, SCUBA diver or Glass-bottom boat passenger. We hope that tourists, school children, scientists and all people with an interest in the marine environment will take to the reefs with us to search for Butterflyfish.
Double Saddled Butterflyfish, FijiThe Great Fiji Butterflyfish Count will be held around Fiji from the 2nd to the 8th November 2008. You can do a single count during that week, or take place as many times as you like during that week, so that you cover different reefs. All data will be gratefully accepted!
So, grab your Great Fiji Butterflyfish Count slate from participating resorts and dive operators, put on your snorkel and mask and dive into the beautiful blue waters of Fiji, to be a part of history!
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According to the report, the consumption of video content related to IPL 2024 has seen significant growth, nearly 3 times more than the previous season, reflecting an increasing interest of fans.
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Euro 2024 Belgium's Rebirth the New Generation Match the Golden Era.docxEticketing.co
The Golden Group is over. Can a new group step up? Two years ago, Kevin De Bruyne plunged Belgium’s Euro 2024 plans into disorder when he claimed the team was “too old” to win in an interview with The Protector. That Belgian squad had 10 players over 30 and the maximum average age of any Euro Cup 2024 team at the competition. A group-stage exit and just one goal at the World Cup put Belgium on course for a restructure.
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Coach Domenico Tedesco has managed a tactical shakeup and a regular exit for some of the oldest players. Experienced bests remain, not least the 37-year-old Jan Vertonghen in defense, the 32-year-old De Bruyne himself in midfield, and 31-year-old Romelu Lukaku up visible.
Still, younger actors like De Bruyne’s Manchester City partner Jeremy Doku bring fresh vitality to the team. Euro Cup Germany Qualifying unbeaten with just four goals allowed from eight games was a welcome sign of accomplishment back on track under Tedesco.
The only other squad in Group E besides Belgium to UEFA Euro 2024 qualify unbeaten, Romania was awestruck by winning a group that also checked Switzerland and Israel. Still, Euro 2024 will test a squad sorely lacking in top-level skill.
Euro 2024: Belgium's Transition from Golden Generation to New Hope
Tottenham guardian Vlad Dragusin is the only Euro Cup 2024 squad member singing regularly for one of Europe’s top clubs this flavor. He even played only nine Premier League games since adoption in January. Goalkeeper Horatiu Moldovan is a stoppage at Atletico Madrid.
There’s a link to the beauty days of Romanian soccer with midfielder Ianis Hagi, son of Gheorghe Hagi, who assisted the team to the rounds of the 1994 World Cup and Euro 2000.
We are only a combine of days away from the UEFA Euro 2024 curtain raiser. The 24 squads are winding up their provisions and getting ready to give it their all to life the wanted Euro Cup Final trophy on July 14. Spread across six clusters, the first hurdle in the knockout phase will be the plump of 16.
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Germany and Scotland will take things off before we get into overdrive in two weeks. Meanwhile, Belgium will be longing to bounce back after a horrendous 2022 FIFA World Cup movement, which ended in the group stage.
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Roberto Martinez completed the way for Domenico Tedesco, who has overseen a compact start to his tenure. The 38-year-old will be assured heading into the group stage
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Psaroudakis: Family and Football – The Psaroudakis Success StoryPsaroudakis
Psaroudakis, a name that resonates with football fans around the globe, is a testament to the powerful synergy between familial support and individual passion. Born on March 10, 1992, in the historic city of Heraklion, Crete, Psaroudakis’ journey to international football stardom is a compelling narrative of dedication, perseverance, and unwavering family support. His story not only highlights his athletic prowess but also underscores the crucial role his family played in shaping his career and character.
Psaroudakis’ early life in Heraklion was deeply influenced by a supportive and nurturing family environment. His father, a former semi-professional footballer, recognized Psaroudakis’ potential from an early age. Acting as his first coach, his father’s guidance was instrumental in igniting Psaroudakis’ passion for football. This paternal influence instilled in him a strong work ethic and fundamental skills that would become the foundation of his future success. His mother, a dedicated homemaker, provided a stable and nurturing environment, ensuring that Psaroudakis could pursue his dreams without any hindrances.
From a young age, Psaroudakis showed an innate talent for football. Growing up in Heraklion, he spent countless hours playing football in local parks and streets with friends and family. His natural ability was evident even in these informal settings, and his enthusiasm for the game was infectious. By the age of five, Psaroudakis had joined a local youth football club, where his skills began to flourish. His father’s role as his first coach during these formative years was crucial, as he emphasized not only technical skills but also the importance of discipline and teamwork.
The transition from playing in local parks to joining a structured football environment marked a significant step in Psaroudakis’ journey. At the age of ten, he joined the youth academy of OFI Crete, one of Greece’s most esteemed football clubs. This move marked the beginning of a more rigorous and professional approach to his training. The academy environment was demanding, focusing on honing technical abilities and instilling values of sportsmanship and dedication. Psaroudakis’ dedication to his craft was evident as he quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a standout player in the youth teams.
The support of Psaroudakis’ family was unwavering during this critical period. His father continued to be a source of guidance and mentorship, while his mother ensured that he had everything he needed to succeed. Their collective efforts created a balanced environment where Psaroudakis could focus entirely on his development as a footballer. This familial support was not just about providing the basics; it was about creating an environment where Psaroudakis felt encouraged and motivated to pursue his dreams relentlessly.
As Psaroudakis transitioned from the youth academy to professional football, the challenges became more significant.
Here are our Euro 2024 predictions for the group stages
Will England make it through the group stages?, Will Germany use the home advantage to full effect?
Follow our progress, see how many we get right
If you want to join in let us know before the first game kick off and we can invite you to our private league
or join in with our friends at DeeperThanBlue
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-7204868572995538944-qejG
https://www.selectdistinct.co.uk/2024/06/13/euro-2024-match-predictions/
#EURO2024 #Germany2024 #England #EURO2024predictions
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Hesan Soufi's Legacy: Inspiring the Next GenerationHesan Soufi
Hesan Soufi's impact on the game extends far beyond his on-field exploits. With his humility, sportsmanship, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Soufi has become a role model for aspiring footballers worldwide. His legacy lies not only in his achievements but also in the inspiration he provides to the next generation of talented players.
3. RAYS OF THE WORLD HUGE VARIETY AND ABUNDANCE OF RAY SPECIES MAJORITY ARE BOTTOM DWELLERS WITH FLAT BROAD BODIES A FEW SPECIES TOOK TO THE OPEN WATER 45 Guitarfishes 260 Skates 70 Electric Rays 180 Stingrays
4. MANTA FAMILY TEN SPECIES IN THE MOBULIDAE SUB-FAMILY THE MANTA RAY & NINE MOBULA RAYS ALL FILTER FEEDERS WITH FORWARD FACING MOUTHS FIRST APPEARED ONLY 20 MYA Smooth-tail Mobula Ray Manta Ray Devil Mobula Ray
5. MANTA FACTS LARGEST MANTA; 6.8m (22ft) WIDE & WEIGHT 2,000kg PELAGIC VS RESIDENT Global Distribution TWO COLOUR MORPHS; CHEVRON AND BLACK A 6m Manta Ray Caught in 1933 off New Jersey, USA
6. MANTA FEEDING HUGE MOUTH FOR CATCHING PLANKTONIC FOOD PADDLE-LIKE CEPHALIC FINS UNFURL WHEN FEEDING Planktonic mysid shrimp CHAIN FEEDING & BARREL ROLLING
7. MANTA MATING The two claspers of a male manta ray Male and female mate at the surface Manta teeth The male bites hold of the females wing Mating Train
8. MANTA BIRTHING A heavily pregnant female visits a cleaning station Females give birth to usually just one (1.5m), fully independent pup after a pregnancy of about one year Near term unborn manta ray pup
9. MANTA PREDATORS MANTA RAYS HAVE FEW NATURAL PREDATORS Tiger Shark Orca or Killer Whale Stumpy probably lost the end of his pectoral fin to a Tiger Shark
10. CLEANING STATIONS A manta opens it’s mouth wide for the dentist Striped Remora or Shark- sucker Cleaner Wrasse Cleaning stations offer great close encounters for divers
11. THREATS TO MANTA RAYS Marine debris BYCATCH Tuna purse-seine net fisheries Gill nets Shark fin fishing
12. MANTA FISHERIES LOCAL SUBSISTANCE FISHERIES IN THE 1990’S LARGE SCALE COMMERCIAL FISHERIES BEGAN IN MEXICO & THE PHILIPINES NEW DEMAND FOR MANTA BRANCHIAL FILAMENTS IN CHINESE MEDICINE TRADE INDONESIAN FISHERIES STARTED IN 1998 TO SUPPLY DEMAND
13. MANTA FINNING IN THE MALDIVES EVEN THE MANTAS IN THE MALDIVES ARE NOT SAFE FROM FISHING THIS MANTA WAS FINNED BY FISHERMEN, IT’S PECTORAL FINS CUT OFF TO BE USED AS SHARK BAIT, WHILE THE REST OF ITS BODY WAS DISCARDED
14. GLOBAL PROTECTION MANTA RAYS ARE LISTED AS ‘NEAR THREATENED’ BY THE WORLD CONSERVATION UNION (IUCN) SOME COUNTRIES HAVE TAKEN STEPS TO PROTECT THEIR MANTA RAY POPULATIONS IN HAWAII MANTA RAYS ARE PROTECTED BY LAW AND IN THE MALDIVES ALL RAY EXPORTS ARE BANNED. IN THESE TWO COUNTRIES ALONE MANTA RAYS GENERATE TENS OF MILLIONS OF DOLLARS EACH YEAR THROUGH TOURISM
15. CODE OF CONDUCT DIVERS AND SNORKELLERS SHOULD ACT RESPONSIBLY WHEN INTERACTING WITH MANTA RAYS MANTA RAYS ARE NATURALLY CURIOUS AND SOCIAL ANIMALS WHICH WILL, IF UNMOLESTED, APPROACH DIVERS DON’T TOUCH OR ATTEMPT TO RIDE ON THE BACKS OF MANTA RAYS TRY NOT TO SWIM DIRECTLY ON TOP OF THE CLEANING STATION Cleaning Station
16. FIJI MANTA RAY PROJECT KADAVU IN FIJI IS ONE OF THE BEST PLACES IN THE WORLD TO SEE MANTA RAYS A LARGE POPULATION SIZE AND REGULAR SIGHTINGS OFFERS EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR RESEARCH ALMOST NOTHING IS KNOWN ABOUT THEIR REPRODUCTIVE CYCLE, FEEDING HABITS OR MIGRATORY PATTERNS THE FIJI MANTA RAY PROJECT WAS ESTABLISHED BY MATAVA TO TRY AND ANSWER SOME OF THESE FUNDAMENTAL QUESTIONS
17.
18. WE NEED YOUR HELP!!! ANYONE CAN SEND THE PROJECT IMAGES OR VIDEO THEY HAVE TAKEN OF MANTA RAYS IN FIJI ITS IMPORTANT TO INCLUDE THE LOCATION, DATE AND TIME OF DAY WHEN THE IMAGES WHERE TAKEN IDEALLY IMAGES WHICH CLEARLY SHOW THE MANTAS UNDERSIDE SPOT PATTERNS ARE BEST DIVER FILMS A HEAVILY PREGNANT FEMALE MANTA AT MANTA REEF IN KADAVU, FIJI
19. PADI Manta Awareness ITS IMPORTANT TO INCLUDE THE LOCATION, DATE AND TIME OF DAY WHEN THE IMAGES WHERE TAKEN DEVLOPED BY MATAVA SPECIFICALLY FOR MANTAS IN FIJI INVOLVES 2 DIVES PHOTOGRAPHING ID SHOTS UPLOADING TO MANTA.ORG
What are Rays?: Of the 29,000 species of fish in the world’s rivers, lakes and oceans only about 1,000 are cartilaginous fish, the rest are bony fishes. Elasmobranchs = ‘elasmo branch’, plated gills. As their name suggests, all of the sharks and rays have a skeleton mainly composed of tough cartilage, which makes them very flexible and much lighter than the bony fish. Cartilaginous fish have been around for 450 million years, with sharks first appearing in the fossil record 370mya and rays 160mya. In this time their basic body plan has remained unchanged. There are currently about 400 species of sharks in the world, although this figure is likely to rise as new deep sea species continue to be discovered. There are about 550 species of rays in the world’s rivers, lakes and oceans.
Rays of the World: There is a huge variety and abundance of ray species around the world. The majority are bottom dwellers, whose broad flattened bodies are superbly adapted to this way of life. To prevent themselves from sucking sand and dirt into their mouths, rays have spiracles on the top of their heads which allow them to breath in fresh sea water. Skates are the dominant rays in the temperate oceans of the world where they occur in large numbers down to the continental shelf They feed on small fishes and crustaceans which they crush with strong jaws and flattened teeth. The Guitarfishes are a strange group of fish which look like a cross between a shark and a ray, and its actually thought that this is what the transitional species that evolved from shark-ray may have looked like. Indeed fossil guitarfish 163 million years old have been found which look remarkably like those found species living today. The electric or torpedo rays are poor swimmers and rely on there ability to generate electrical charges to overpower their prey. They do this from two fleshy lobes situated on either side of the body. The stingrays are a diverse group morphologically, containing the stingray, whiprays, cow-nose rays, eagle rays and off course the manta rays. They occur in a wide variety of ecosystems; from the tropical and temperate oceans, to freshwater rivers and lakes in the tropics. Some species can even be found thousands of miles up the Amazon river, long since evolving away from their marine roots. As the name suggests a number of these rays possess a sting at the base of their tail, this barbed spine is used in defense and can inflict serious injuries on a predator or unfortunate wader.
Manta Ray Family (Mobulidae): There are ten extant species which belong to the Mobulidae family and two genus within the family. There are nine Devil or Mobula rays and the Manta Ray ( Manta birostris ). All are filter feeders with huge mouths at the front of their heads. They can be found throughout the worlds temperate and tropical oceans. The first Mobulid appeared in the fossil record only 20 million years ago, making them some of the most recently evolved sharks and rays. Mobulas differ from the Manta in a number of ways; all are a lot smaller, with even the largest reaching only 5m on rare occasions and the majority reaching only a few metres. Mobulas still poses a spine at the base of their tail, manta do not. The cephalic fins of Mobulas only extend as flaps down from their heads, where as the manta rays cephalic fins unfurl to a much greater degree forming large paddle-like fins in front of the mouth. Mobula rays are also a lot shyer than manta rays and are much harder to observe underwater by divers. At least two species of Mobula rays occur in the Maldives as well as the Manta ray; the Smooth-tail Mobula ( M.thurstoni ) and the Pygmy Mobula ( M.eregoodootenkee).
Manta Ray Facts: Mantas are a pelagic species, spending all of their time feeding on plankton in the water column. Manta rays can be found throughout the worlds tropical and semi tropical oceans, common in shelf waters where deep upwellings bring plankton rich currents to the surface. Manta rays can reach a maximum width of 6.8m (22ft), and weight 2,000kg (4,400lb) although a more common size is 4m. This makes them by far the largest of all the rays. Manta rays are born with very long tails, but these are often bitten shorter by predators, such as sharks, as the manta ages. Unlike other closely related species manta rays lack any defensive spines at the base of their tail, and rely on their speed and size to elude predation. Manta rays occur in two colour morphs; the first is the black morph, where the manta is largely black on both its dorsal and ventral surface, with some small areas of white spots and patches. The second morph is the chevron; this is by far the more common of the two morphs, where the manta has a black and white chevron patterned dorsal surface with a white ventral surface. This ventral surface is often covered in black spots and patches, creating a unique pattern on each manta ray which can therefore be used for identification. Although all manta ray populations around the world belong to the same genetic species, it appears that there is segregation both geographically and behaviourally. Some populations, like the Maldives, appear to stay in shallow water close to the reef, others have a more pelagic lifestyle travelling huge distances across the oceans. These pelagic mantas also seem to grow larger than the reef populations (which average 3-4m) growing to over 6 metres.
Manta Feeding: Manta rays feed on zooplankton like mysid shrimps and copepods. They filter out the plankton using their gills like sieves, while cephalic fins on their heads unfurl to channel the food into their mouths. When they are not feeding these fins curl up in front of the mouth, making the rays look like they have horns, hence the name devil rays. They have a huge mouth, like their close relative the whale shark, which is situated at the front of their head. They can often be found in the Maldives feeding at the surface in large aggregations, its thought that by working together they can cause eddies with their wings concentrating the plankton.
Manta Mating: Very little is known about the reproductive lifecycle of manta rays, as yet nobody has documented the birth of one, and only a few people have been lucky enough to witness matings. During the mating season the larger female manta rays test the suitability of potential mates by leading them on a chase, the males line up behind the female all vying for position until the closest male will eventually grasp one of the female’s fin-tips in his mouth. Both manta’s rise up towards the surface and mate belly to belly while falling downwards towards the reef. All sharks and rays have internal fertilization; males have two modified pelvic fins (known as claspers) and they insert one inside the female during mating to fertilize her. Manta rays only have teeth on their lower jaw and the males use them for gripping hold of the females pectoral fin during mating.
Manta Birthing: It has also been said that female mantas leap clear of the water while giving birth. After mating it’s not known how long the female mantas are pregnant for, but it’s likely to be about a year. During this time usually just a single pup is nourished by milky secretions from the lining of the mother’s uterus, until it is born at a size of about 1metre (3ft) and ready to fend for itself. After being born the manta pup is completely independent from its mother, although there is anecdotal observational evidence to suggest otherwise. Manta rays often attract unwanted hitch-hikers, like remora fish. These fish use modified dorsal fins to suck onto the body of their chauffeurs, leaving the mantas to feed, but always returning to the safety of their host if danger threatens. There are two species of Remora fish which are commonly seen in the Maldives; the striped remora and brown remora.
Manta Predators: Their large size means that manta rays have few natural predators, large sharks (e.g. Tiger and Bull sharks) and possibly Orcas (Killer whales) pose the greatest natural threat. However, a mantas flattened body also affords them a lot of protection by making it very difficult for a predator to get its teeth into the vital organs, often they escape with just a bite on the wing. While these injuries are severe, manta rays appear to have a remarkable ability to heal and it’s common to see individuals in the Maldives with old shark bites on the pectoral wings, or even whole sections of a wing missing. ‘ Stumpy’ is a male manta who has lost the end of his right pectoral fin to a shark attack, probably a tiger shark. He appears to be none the worse for his scar.
Cleaning Stations: Manta rays often visit specific locations on a reef to have their bodies cleaned of parasites and dead tissue by small cleaner fish. These fish are commonly wrasses, although many other fish groups; such as angelfish, butterflyfish and gobies are also known to partake in cleaning. This relationship is mutually beneficial to both the manta ray, which would otherwise be unable to rid themselves of harmful parasites, and the cleaner fish, which get an easy meal. It’s also good for divers, as these cleaning stations provide the ideal location for getting excellent, close up views of these amazing animals as they glide within inches of the reef and the divers. Manta rays are naturally very inquisitive animals and will frequently approach divers; this level of curiosity and voluntary human interaction is very rare in most wild animals (especially marine animals) and adds weight to the theory that these are relatively intelligent and highly social animals.
Threats to Manta Rays: Indirectly manta and Mobula rays often fall victim as unintentional bycatch in a number of other fisheries. Tuna purse-seine nets, drift nets and long lines, used for shark fin fishing frequently catch these rays which then quickly die as they need to keep swimming in order to ‘breathe’. In South Africa and other parts of the world where shark nets are used to protect the beaches, these rays and many other marine animals (such as dolphins, whales and turtles) are indiscriminately entangled and killed in large numbers each year to protect humans. All of the above manmade threats are especially difficult for manta ray populations to recover from due to their life cycle. Slow growth and maturity rates, long gestation periods, infrequent birthings and small litter sizes mean that this species is particularly vulnerable to exploitation. Where large scale fisheries have occurred it will take many of our generations before these populations recover, if ever.
Manta Fisheries: For generations, where manta rays and their smaller relatives, the Mobula rays, exist around the world people have fished them for their oily livers, flesh and their tough abrasive skin. This type of local subsistence fishing has always been sustainable, with the fisherman taking a very small percentage of these rays’ populations. However in the 1990’s large scale commercial fisheries began to appear, targeting these rays for their fins, branchial filaments and even just as bait, having a devastating effect on the local populations. In Mexico and the Philippines populations have been decimated, with only a handful of manta sightings now reported each year in the fished areas, where a few decades ago their numbers were plentiful. In 1998, a few coastal islands in Indonesia switched from a local subsistence manta fishery to a new type of large scale commercial fishing to supply the new demand for dried manta branchial gill filaments, which are ground into powder and sold into the Asian medicine market. Before 1998 it was estimated that the local fishermen in these waters caught between 300-400 mantas per year in total. In 2002 the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) sponsored a survey to assess the impact of these commercial branchial fisheries; they reported a huge increase in the catch numbers of up to 2,400 for that year. Already in just a few years it appears that the local population has been decimated with local fishermen having to move further to find mantas. Target fisheries for these species also currently exist in several other countries, including Mozambique, Madagascar, India, Sri Lanka, Brazil, and Tanzania.
Manta Fisheries: For generations, where manta rays and their smaller relatives, the Mobula rays, exist around the world people have fished them for their oily livers, flesh and their tough abrasive skin. This type of local subsistence fishing has always been sustainable, with the fisherman taking a very small percentage of these rays’ populations. However in the 1990’s large scale commercial fisheries began to appear, targeting these rays for their fins, branchial filaments and even just as bait, having a devastating effect on the local populations. In Mexico and the Philippines populations have been decimated, with only a handful of manta sightings now reported each year in the fished areas, where a few decades ago their numbers were plentiful. In 1998, a few coastal islands in Indonesia switched from a local subsistence manta fishery to a new type of large scale commercial fishing to supply the new demand for dried manta branchial gill filaments, which are ground into powder and sold into the Asian medicine market. Before 1998 it was estimated that the local fishermen in these waters caught between 300-400 mantas per year in total. In 2002 the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) sponsored a survey to assess the impact of these commercial branchial fisheries; they reported a huge increase in the catch numbers of up to 2,400 for that year. Already in just a few years it appears that the local population has been decimated with local fishermen having to move further to find mantas. Target fisheries for these species also currently exist in several other countries, including Mozambique, Madagascar, India, Sri Lanka, Brazil, and Tanzania.
Global Protection: Manta rays are currently listed as “Near Threatened” by the World Conservation Union (IUCN). It’s known that several populations around the world are severely depleted, but not enough scientific work has been carried out to properly assess this species as a whole. Almost nothing is known about their population ecology, use of critical habitat, movements or reproduction, all of which are important if we are to accurately asses the state of the species. Some countries however have taken steps to enforce their own national protection for manta rays; the Maldives has a large population of manta rays which have complete protection and a thriving dive tourism industry which they help to support. The income which is generated from this tourism industry in the Maldives alone is calculated to be in the Millions of dollars annually, bringing much more money to the country than any manta fisheries could.
Code of Conduct: Divers and snorkellers should ensure that they interact responsibly when encountering manta rays. They are curious and social animals who will often approach you, this should always be on their terms and chasing or attempting to touch or ride a manta will frequently result in them being frightened off. One the best places to observe them are at cleaning stations, where the mantas make regular visits to have parasites and dead skin removed from there bodies by small cleaner fish. While these locations offer excellent close encounters, it’s important that divers never swim directly onto the cleaning station or inhibit the path of the mantas.
Maldivian Manta Ray Project: The Maldives is one of the best places in the world to dive or snorkel with manta rays, the population density here appears to be one of the highest anywhere throughout their range. Despite their relative abundance here almost nothing is known about their life cycle, feeding habits, or migratory patterns. The Maldivian Manta Ray Project (MMRP) was established to try and find answers to some of these fundamental questions.
Project Research: All manta rays have a unique pattern of spots and markings on the underside of their body making it easy to identify individuals. Combining this pattern with tail length, sex and pre-existing scars helps to further confirm the mantas identity and enables us to build a photographic database of individuals. From this database, which includes all sighting history for individuals and its location, we are able to begin to build an understanding of seasonal migrations, localised daily movements, population size and cleaning and feeding behaviour. Updating and adding to this database is an ongoing task with new individuals being sighted on a regular basis, a clear photograph of the mantas underside is sufficient to confirm an existing or new identity and this is easily achieved when mantas congregate at cleaning stations. We welcome any photographs taken by divers who would like to contribute to the growth of our database.
Project Research: All manta rays have a unique pattern of spots and markings on the underside of their body making it easy to identify individuals. Combining this pattern with tail length, sex and pre-existing scars helps to further confirm the mantas identity and enables us to build a photographic database of individuals. From this database, which includes all sighting history for individuals and its location, we are able to begin to build an understanding of seasonal migrations, localised daily movements, population size and cleaning and feeding behaviour. Updating and adding to this database is an ongoing task with new individuals being sighted on a regular basis, a clear photograph of the mantas underside is sufficient to confirm an existing or new identity and this is easily achieved when mantas congregate at cleaning stations. We welcome any photographs taken by divers who would like to contribute to the growth of our database.
Project Research: All manta rays have a unique pattern of spots and markings on the underside of their body making it easy to identify individuals. Combining this pattern with tail length, sex and pre-existing scars helps to further confirm the mantas identity and enables us to build a photographic database of individuals. From this database, which includes all sighting history for individuals and its location, we are able to begin to build an understanding of seasonal migrations, localised daily movements, population size and cleaning and feeding behaviour. Updating and adding to this database is an ongoing task with new individuals being sighted on a regular basis, a clear photograph of the mantas underside is sufficient to confirm an existing or new identity and this is easily achieved when mantas congregate at cleaning stations. We welcome any photographs taken by divers who would like to contribute to the growth of our database.